Our second year here. The family had a blast. We were the ones walking around with orange 5 gallon buckets filled with ducks. We attempted to duck everyone but I only brought 400 ducks.

My oldest son did something special and I wanted to share. As we were ducking Jeeps he was putting aside the military ducks from the bucket. I thought he wanted to keep them for himself but when I asked him, he said he was saving them for the Marines in front of the dealership. We walked over and he gave one to each of them. It was great to see them smile and take pictures with it. He still had one military duck left. I asked him what we we’re doing now and he said we’re giving the last one to the Veteran jeep. I felt really proud at this moment. He gets it.

It’s so heartwarming to see so many fellow Jeepers come together for such a great cause. I wanna say that this year turned out great! The route was easy and the the after party was fantastic. I wish we could have stayed for the entirety but the little ones were getting tired.

The sheer amount of planning for such an event seems unfathomable. I am so proud the family and I could be part of it again. You can count on us being there every single year. My sons (7 & 8 yrs old) were talking about how someday they’re going to buy a jeep wrangler and drive in the parade. I love the impact that this group has made in the community and the values we’re instilling in our little future Jeepers.

I’d like to raise my glass. A toast to Mike Missak and the entire JOTR crew. A very sincere thank you for all that you have done. It is truly amazing to see how we all can come together to make a difference. Cheers!